Northern Michigan University, located in Marquette, Michigan, is a dynamic four-year, public, comprehensive university that has grown its reputation based on its award-winning leadership programs, cutting-edge technology initiatives and nationally recognized academic programs. Northern has a population of about 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

Ask a few Northern students what drew them to our university and you will get a variety of answers. That's because there is no single thing that make students want to go to Northern; it is ALL the things that we do here. Northern is big enough to offer a wide variety of academic programs but is also small enough that every time you walk across campus, you'll probably wave "hi" to someone you know.

Curiosity is the raw ingredient of knowledge. It causes us to ask questions, to seek answers, to learn. At Northern Michigan University, natural curiosity and intellectual challenge meet in stimulating classes grounded in the liberal arts. So wherever your curiosity leads you, you can count on the support you need to take the next step, ask the next question, propose the next hypothesis.

The mission of the Northern Michigan University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, Recreational Sports and the United States Olympic Training Site is to create an environment that promotes academic excellence, interpersonal growth and social development; embraces diversity; teaches lifetime leisure skills; fosters spirit and tradition; and builds a lifelong connection to NMU.

Yes, you'll attend your classes, but what else will you be doing as a student at Northern? There's so much stuff to choose from. There's a student organization or club – almost 300 at last count-- for just about every interest. If you're into investigating the paranormal, anime or improv comedy, there's a group. Cheer on your fellow Wildcats at a hockey game or volleyball match. Join a competitive club sport or an intramural team. The sky is the limit.

Community Connection

Jodi Tervo is the Founder and Director for the Upper Peninsula Cross-Country Ski Programs located in Ishpeming, Iron Mountain, and at Michigan Technological University. Jodi decided to change careers and is currently pursuing a Masters in Exercise Science in order to create adaptive sport and recreational opportunities for persons with physical and visual impairments

The program is a 100% volunteer organization, and is sponsored by the Superior Alliance for Independent Living and Central Cross-Country Skiing Association (CXC). There have been generous donations and community support to make the ski program a success.

City of Ishpeming Parks and Recreation (Funding and use of trails)

Ishpeming Community Foundation (Funding)

Michigan Technological University and the Michigan Technological University Nordic Ski Club (Use of equipment, trails, and rental donations)

Negaunee Community Foundation (Funding)

Sports Rack (Equipment assistance)

Wilderness Sports (Free rentals)

YMCA of Marquette County (Marketing)

Skiers and volunteers meet on Tuesdays evenings for ski lessons through early March, the program runs from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Al Quaal Recreation Area in Ishpeming and is free of charge. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Adaptive sit-ski's and stand-up equipment are provided. Please ask Jodi for details.

Each outing produces smiling faces, positive energy, and an excitement for skiing. "This all was made possible by voicing a dream, and a community working together to make the dream a reality" states Jodi.